Pope Leo has appealed for the immediate release of students, clergy, and faithful recently abducted in Nigeria and Cameroon, describing the incidents as deeply distressing.
Delivering remarks after Mass celebrating the Solemnity of Christ the King, the Pope said he was “immensely saddened” by the wave of kidnappings, particularly those targeting minors.
“I make a heartfelt appeal that the hostages be immediately released,” he said, calling on authorities in both countries to take decisive action.
The call follows the abduction of 315 students and staff from St Mary High School in Nigeria’s Niger State on November 22. In Cameroon’s conflict-hit Northwest Region, six Catholic priests were taken in Ndop, with one still held captive. A Baptist pastor was also kidnapped in Jakiri, in the Bui Division, that same week.
Pope Leo closed his remarks with a prayer that schools and churches may always remain sanctuaries of peace and hope.